rMB for college? Or still buy MBA?

[Hieveryone]

Hello

I'm about to finish designing/publishing a website for my father's company, and I'm getting 1000€ for it (which is so generous ). I also have about 500€ saved up, and I want to use all this money to buy a laptop for college, where I'll be heading this fall, and feed my addiction at the same time.

I already have a 2012 15" rMBP, the base model, which has served me very well through high school, although I didn't bring it to class. I use it to play games (WoW, LoL and Hearthstone mainly), run adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and Muse, surf the web, watch videos... It sometimes shows its limits when I try to do several things at the same time or run games in better resolutions, but it's nothing I can't manage and I'm certainly keeping it a few more years.

The one thing that I wouldn't do with it, though, is bring it to class. Not only because 15" is not that portable, but I also don't want to have my games and personal documents on the same laptop that I use for school. I have considered a Dell, but I really dislike Windows So what I want to buy, alongside my rMBP, either:

1) The 12" rMB base model, which I really like for the portability and the retina display. Also it's new, pretty and shiny. (1 449€: yes, overpriced)

To be clear I want the new macbook. Next year I'm going to study law, so I won't really need it for more than typing/surfing the web if I use it for school. It doesn't really matter if it can't do more because I don't want another laptop to overlap with my rMBP anyway. It will be really practical too, the thing is so small and light. And the retina screen is a huge bonus, I'd love not to have to look at a pixellated screen again

2) The 13" regular MBA, with 8GO ram and the other base specs. It is cheaper, more powerful and future-proof. (1 199€)

On the other side, I know I should really buy the MBA. It does more for less money. I'm afraid I'll end up getting frustrated if I buy the other underpowered, slow laptop. On a MBA at least I won't have to worry about my daily usage. And the thing is still portable enough. It will probably last me more too, whereas the rMB might be barely usable in a few years.


So I keep changing my mind. I don't want to make a choice I'll regret, and computers are quite important to me. I feel dumb for not being able to make a simple decision, but I have to ask, what would you guys do if you were me?

TL;DR: I already have a 15" rMBP. Should I buy a 12" rMB or a 13" MBA for college?

Thanks a lot

Go on ahead and get that Air. You don't want a machine you can't do much with beyond web browsing and iTunes. Watch MKBHD's video on YouTube. He gives a great review explaining why the rMB is a mistake.

 

[FrankB1191]

Go on ahead and get that Air. You don't want a machine you can't do much with beyond web browsing and iTunes. Watch MKBHD's video on YouTube. He gives a great review explaining why the rMB is a mistake.

I watched the video, but didn't see where he said it was a mistake. He seemed impressed with its design, while noting that it's not a device for photo editing.

 

[Hieveryone]

I watched the video, but didn't see where he said it was a mistake. He seemed impressed with its design, while noting that it's not a device for photo editing.

I would read in between the lines. He says it has a weak processor that is about the performance of a tablet.

So what I'm saying is unless you just need a device to write notes and watch videos this is a huge mistake.

1 port, low powered processor, hefty price.

 

[Loune17]

I personally find having separate laptops to be a bit of a pain. Cloud file storage has eased this greatly - along with browsers that sync, etc. Still, it's extra administration to deal with.

The 13" rMBP is actually quite compact - it's only a bit thicker than the 13" Air and actually occupies a smaller overall footprint. It's about 1/2lb heavier - which is not insignificant, but it's overall a lot smaller and lighter than your 15" while not giving up a whole lot.

OSx also has multiple workspaces so that you can virtually keep one for home and one for school.

Not saying this is the way to go - just offering some thoughts from experience. I do think the new MacBook is tailor made for students and professionals who are on the move constantly - and your 15" model has not only the larger screen, but also a more powerful processor than the 13" models - so something else to think of.

DAMN you just made this purchase complicated again
Just kidding , thanks a lot for your insight, this is something I didn't want to consider since I'm attracted to the new shiny toy, but really should. I don't want to end up like these guys who have 2 phones, 2 tablets or 2 computers and only use one. And it would be even worse to end up as someone with 2 laptops who WOULD use only 1 but can't because both have serious drawbacks.

I didn't really know about multiple workspaces, or rather I knew this was possible on windows but it had never really crossed my mind, so that's interesting to know.

Now for the smaller screen, I can just say I'll buy an external display when I get spare money again. I find 15" borderline small anyway when I work in Muse or use two windows side by side. A problem would be the dual core processor, I know I sometimes push my MacBook to its limits... Even though I don't HAVE to and could just do 1 thing at a time or game on lower resolutions, so it's not like it's a dealbreaker, just inconvenient.

I guess I'll have to really think this through. For those of you suggesting I keep my 15", well I tried to justify buying a new laptop with logical reasons but I know I don't need it. But I sure as hell WANT to spend the money I have on a new laptop which is more suitable for college, and I can't see myself desiring anything else with this money, so I'm going to buy it even though it's not the wise choice I understand you find that superfluous though, because it is

And I'll definitely watch the review you guys suggested and the other reviews that will come to decide on buying this damn tempting rMB or getting the 13". I ruled out the MBA because I actually played with my mother's a bit, before I wrote my last post, and decided I didn't want to deal with that screen, but I see how it could have been a solid choice too.

 

[Meister]

Macbook Air. The new macbook seems to be a nightmare for all practical purposes in a professional work environment.

 

[Queen6]

Macbook Air. The new macbook seems to be a nightmare for all practical purposes in a professional work environment.

Completely depends on what your using it for. After a lot of thought I can see the new Macbook working for me, equally it wouldn't be my primary Mac and I several other options.

My primary concern right now is performance, on face value the new Mac would be adequate, however is it throttles heavily it will be a deal beaker. In which case I will likely revert to plan "A" 11" Air.

We will all see soon enough once they hit the market and the reviews are out.

Q-6

 

[Meister]

Completely depends on what your using it for. After a lot of thought I can see the new Macbook working for me, equally it wouldn't be my primary Mac and I several other options.

My primary concern right now is performance, on face value the new Mac would be adequate, however is it throttles heavily it will be a deal beaker. In which case I will likely revert to plan "A" 11" Air.

We will all see soon enough once they hit the market and the reviews are out.

Q-6

True. But in schools and many other workplaces usb and other peripherals are standard and used all the time. I even considered a 2012 mbp for the ethernet and firewire port. I frequently wish my rmbp had more than only 3 usb ports. At this point in time only one port and then a bunch of adapters is not acceptable for the majority of users who use a macbook at their workplace.

 

[Queen6]

True. But in schools and many other workplaces usb and other peripherals are standard and used all the time. I even considered a 2012 mbp for the ethernet and firewire port. I frequently wish my rmbp had more than only 3 usb ports. At this point in time only one port and then a bunch of adapters is not acceptable for the majority of users who use a macbook at their workplace.

Valid, and I had the same concerns as USB is so very ubiquitous, and not going away anytime soon. I have a very small USB 3.0 hub, and the Apple Ethernet over USB, I also need HDIMI from time to time, so that is covered by Apple`s own adaptor which to me should be in the box. For SD cards I have wireless storage with a card slot so that is also covered, nor do I continuously use the peripherals.

As I would be only using the "MacBook" as a backup to either 15" or 13" Retina in the field it would add a little more versatility mostly down to the extreme portability; meetings, MS Office, Visio, Mail, EverNote document review etc, nothing overly stressful.

In my own case I have been dealing with the same issue for some time already as once in the field I will generally carry an Android tablet continuously (likes dislikes aside. I need an OS with file system) and it presents the same challenges; one port in, one port out. One tends to get used to managing this from; power in, HDMI out, USB OTG, full size SD Cards, even a USD hard drive.

So in this scenario the new "Macbook" would be actually easier to deal with for me; OS X over Android, native applications, larger display, greater internal storage, keyboard. In the event my primary Mac failed in the field at a push the new "MacBook" should be able to pickup the workload and potentially reduce the number of devices on the trip.

Equally my position is not common, nor do I believe the new "MacBook" is the best of choices as a solitary system. Truthfully I wish Apple had stuck closer to the current Air; with at least two USB C ports. I would be more than happy to buy the current 11" Air however for me the display is a deal breaker as it so sub par for my need with my 8.4" Samsung Tablet far surpassing it in this direction.

I am not entirely sold on it, and need to see decent reviews and the product itself, keyboard and all. In many respects I am just tempted to get another 13" Retina as size versus performance & versatility it`s by far the most impressive portable I have ever used, equally as many more who travel internationally for a living will testify that after some time literally every ounce counts and the less you carry the better within reason.

Q-6

 

[FrankB1191]

I would read in between the lines. He says it has a weak processor that is about the performance of a tablet.

So what I'm saying is unless you just need a device to write notes and watch videos this is a huge mistake.

1 port, low powered processor, hefty price.

Marques doesn't pull his punches, so.... He does say "it's a note taking machine....students will like it." He ultimately says, "It's really just for everyday people looking to kick back, and do whatever."

True, he does say with its processor, it's like a tablet with a keyboard, but the iPad doesn't run OS X. People have been wanting an iPad Pro, and I think this might be it, and a whole lot more (OS X).

I do have my wife's 13" rMBP on Craigslist. She wants the new MacBook in gold. She basically uses the rMBP for emails (work and personal), Facebook, and iTunes. She has more powerful computers in her office for work. I like it because of the size and weight, and my home computing needs aren't much more than my wife's. In fact, my iPad takes care of all my home computing, so I really don't need the new MacBook.

 

[Hieveryone]

Marques doesn't pull his punches, so.... He does say "it's a note taking machine....students will like it." He ultimately says, "It's really just for everyday people looking to kick back, and do whatever."

True, he does say with its processor, it's like a tablet with a keyboard, but the iPad doesn't run OS X. People have been wanting an iPad Pro, and I think this might be it, and a whole lot more (OS X).

I do have my wife's 13" rMBP on Craigslist. She wants the new MacBook in gold. She basically uses the rMBP for emails (work and personal), Facebook, and iTunes. She has more powerful computers in her office for work. I like it because of the size and weight, and my home computing needs aren't much more than my wife's. In fact, my iPad takes care of all my home computing, so I really don't need the new MacBook.

Ok then get one. As long as you're aware of the limitations and are stilling willing to pay despite them.

 

[Jynto]

If you have to ask, then you should go with the Air. It's cheaper, more compatible, not an early adopter's product. In a couple of generations, it could be the perfect note-taking machine, especially as more USB-C accessories hit the market, but not now.

If you're really wedded to that retina display, you should choose the 13" rMBP. It's almost the same machine as the Air, the retina display being the main differentiating factor.

What you should really be asking yourself though is whether you really need to replace that 15" MacBook Pro. After all, a new computer for its own sake does no one any good. I tend to use my computers until they stop working.

 

[Traverse]

Since you already have a powerful "desktop" at home, I'd go with thr MB.

That is my situation. I have a 15" 2013 MacBook Pro at home and take an ipad with a keyboard to school. iOS' limitations get old. Since I have a powerful system at home, I want the thinnest, lightest model available. I do a lot of reading so the Retina screen is a huge plus.

I'm debating new iPad or MB.

 

[crucius]

I really don't see why anyone would buy a Macbook Air. The Macbook outperforms the Air, and has a better although smaller screen. Also, the Air has half the RAM and half the storage space. The 13'' MBA with 256 Gb SSD and 8 Gb of RAM costs (here in Portugal) 1479 Euro whereas the Macbook costs 1499 Euro. For an extra 20 Euro you get an amazing screen and a shiny new product that everyone will envy!

The lack of ports shouldn't be an issue for someone who never brought their computer to school/university. I have a mid-2010 13'' Macbook Pro and I have to carry a dongle to connect it to classroom projectors, so it won't be a problem to carry one dongle with the new Macbook.

I want this baby. However, I am still undecided between it and the 13'' MBP though.

 

[Traverse]

As I would be only using the "MacBook" as a backup to either 15" or 13" Retina in the field it would add a little more versatility mostly down to the extreme portability; meetings, MS Office, Visio, Mail, EverNote document review etc, nothing overly stressful.
Q-6

I agreed with your entire post, but especially this.

It seems to me that most of the issues people are haveing with the new MacBook stem from the idea that it will replace your main system. Unless you are a very casual user (the kind that could get by with an iPad alone) I don't think it was designed for that.

This system was designed for extreme portibilty and casual use. I would never even consider it as my only machine, but I have a 15" rMBP docked at home for that. I appreciate the power of the 15" for my LR library, video projects, and other tasks. I could do all that on a 13" rMBP, but since I have the 15" why sell it and go to a less powerful system?

I've been using an iPad with a keyboard case as my on-the-go system and this new MB is the perfect complement. I need it for casual web browsing, Office, and other light productivity cases. I know it will get better in version 2, but I'm starting grad school this summer and was already going to get a new iPad in the fall. I may just get the MacBook. Even if they come out with a model that has 2x the power and 12 of battery life I'll be okay. Will I have some buyer's remose? Sure, but I think it will be worth it.

I'm still deciding if I want to give up the tablet form factor though.

TLR version: THe issues people seem to have with the new MB is thinking of it as a sole computer. I think it shoudl be thought of as more of a complement to a more powerful Mac or Windows system.

 

[ctyrider]

TLR version: THe issues people seem to have with the new MB is thinking of it as a sole computer. I think it shoudl be thought of as more of a complement to a more powerful Mac or Windows system.

There are huge benefits to having a single computer though. I know all my data is always with me, and I don't need to ever think about there the latest version of my document may be.. or deal with Dropbox/Cloud syncing, or any of that similar crap.

I have a single machine, and I wouldn't have it any other way. When I am done working in my home office - I undock my laptop, throw it in my backpack, head over to Starbucks, and pick up work right where I left off.

Would hate to go back to having multiple computers. If a MacBook 12" cannot be my only system - it's not a laptop for me. Would just as well stick with my 11" Air, which is a perfect little machine for all purposes.

 

[Traverse]

There are huge benefits to having a single computer though. I know all my data is always with me, and I don't need to ever think about there the latest version of my document may be.. or deal with Dropbox/Cloud syncing, or any of that similar crap.

I have a single machine, and I wouldn't have it any other way. When I am done working in my home office - I undock my laptop, throw it in my backpack, head over to Starbucks, and pick up work right where I left off.

Would hate to go back to having multiple computers. If a MacBook 12" cannot be my only system - it's not a laptop for me. Would just as well stick with my 11" Air, which is a perfect little machine for all purposes.

I always hated the idea of that too, but for me I'd just drag my iTunes music folder over and use one Dropbox folder to sync work stuff, that's all.

Other than that, I'd just browse the web and other casual this. I'd probably only use like 20 GB of that 256 SSD. I don't want to mirror my rMBP. That's home base and this MB Would just replace the iPad as casual device.

 

[davidg4781]

Why are you wanting to get rid of the 15"? Is 3" that much more to carry around (keep it clean, folks!). I don't see the point of keeping the gaming separate, unless you won't be able to refrain from playing while sitting in class.

If you have that itch to get something new... here are my choices.

1: Wait until the new rMB is launched and you can read about some real world experience. I really doubt Apple would put out a fancy netbook. It may be sucky for rendering video or playing high res games, but photos and other "power" stuff should be fine, if anything a bit slower than on a Pro model. I have a feeling it's going to be either the new Air or the model between the Air and Pro.

2: Get a 13" rMBP. I went through my last half of college with one and have had one since 2006. They're great, small, but screen is good sized, and it's powerful enough to get done whatever you need to get done.

3: Suck it up and stick with the 15". Use your money to buy textbooks and caffeine.

But man that rMB is sweet looking. If it'll play Tropico pretty well I may pick one up.

 

[QCassidy352]

I don't see the logic in buying a laptop just to segregate your school work and your personal life. I think if you need to separate them, you can partition the the drive on your 15" MBP.

This. Or create a second user account. No reason to have a second machine, IMO.

Though to answer your original question, I'd say 13" air, mostly because it's cheaper. You don't really need the power or ports, having the 15" pro, but you don't really need anything, having the pro. Therefore, just get the cheaper one. (Though again, I think you can/should just use the 15" pro either partitioned or with 2 accounts)

 

[Queen6]

TLR version: THe issues people seem to have with the new MB is thinking of it as a sole computer. I think it shoudl be thought of as more of a complement to a more powerful Mac or Windows system.

I believe a major issue is it`s been a significant time since Apple released a new portable so expectations are literally stratospheric across the community who have been patiently waiting for the release, all with there own individual needs, however for many the new "MacBook" is far off the mark.

Realistically the new "MacBook" is the next generation of Ultraportable Notebook and with it comes "baggage" notably ports, potential performance and a 1st Gen product. I still find myself debating the validity of the new "MacBook" for my own usage/workflow and can see both potential positive & negative scenarios.

Right now the optimal portable Mac for cost, features, performance, physical size is the 13" MBPr the rest of the range is ether up or down the scale on multiple levels, as such one must accept the trade off`s based on what one`s priorities are, including myself

Q-6